Speeding In A School Zone in NY

Anyone who lives near a school in NY or NJ knows what a school zone is. These areas – usually the street in front of or surrounding an elementary school or similar institution – feature unique road laws that mandate drivers to slow down to speeds of around 15 to 20 miles per hour. For some, these laws are the very definition of annoying, requiring abrupt and often undesired deceleration, but the logic behind them is simple and sound. Anyone who has children knows how scary the possibility of a road accident is – a car careening down a quiet suburban street, striking children at play in front of their homes is no imaginary threat.

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These laws exist to protect our children and ensure they can cross in front of or around their schools without fear of injury. Because they secure the safety of our children, they enjoy widespread support and are likely to stick around as permanent fixtures of traffic law for a long time. The point is, they exist and will exist, and a sensible driver will obey these laws or suffer the consequences, which can and often be very steep.

Any time you drive at a speed higher than the speed posted for that area, you are in violation of state law. Obviously this remains the case in school zones, which often post their unique speed limits right around the school that is protected. Smart drivers will notice these speed limits, come to anticipate them in future trips around those areas and make sure to abide by those limits when they appear next. They will also notice when these speed laws are in force – school zone speed limits are often not in force all day and night, usually only requiring decreased speeds from times between 7 am to 7 pm, or similar time frames.

So What Are The Fines and Penalties For Speeding in A School Zone ?

Penalties are, as you can imagine, typically expensive and come in the form of fines or similar punishments. But that’s not the end of the story. In New York State, ignoring the posted speed limit near a school can actually carry the possibility of jail time. The extent of the punishment is related to by how much the posted speed limit was violated.

For example, if someone is 10 miles above the posted speed limit they will be assessed 3 points and a $300 fine with an $85 surcharge.

If they speed above 10 mph, they begin to face the possibility of jail time, ranging from 15 days in jail. They can also face fines up to $600 dollars in fines with an $85 surcharge. As it is becoming increasingly obvious, it does not pay to speed near a school.

If you’ve racked up significant penalties as a result of speeding near a school, it is highly recommend that you consult a legal professional as soon as possible. An experienced traffic attorney – like the attorneys at the Rosenblum Law Firm, know how to navigate the legal system and secure the best results for their clients.

42 thoughts on “Speeding In A School Zone in NY”

What happens if u don’t pay a school zone cam violations in NYC and you live and work in Long Island??I think I payed $950 in vain, when I found out I had NYC cam violations sitting unpaid for 4 1/2 years on my Long Island New York Plates. My car was never towed or booted in Long Island or NYC although drove to NYC often during this time.

Tony – we always advise our clients to pay any outstanding fines and penalties. While I can not explain why a particular violation may not have impacted you yet, I would strongly advise against not paying a ticket.

I got pulled over this morning for 38 in a 15 supposedly however the officer pulled me over well past the school zone and I am sure I was going within the speed limit in the school zone as I was on my way to work, should I plead not guilty and contest it?

Lola – I would suggest pleading not guilty as this is a 6 point speeding ticket that carries substantial fines and penalties. Please advise me of the violation code in order that I may provide more specific information regarding the fines associated with this ticket.

I was doing 36 in a 20mph school zone.. this is my first ticket and I’m kinda freaking out. I was watching for children but wasn’t paying attention to my spedometer. The police officer said to plead not guilty to reduce it to a parking ticket. I really don’t want points on my license and I’m a new driver.

Leah – As the penalties and consequences are enhanced for a school zone violation, I would suggest you contact us for a free consultation. Generally speaking, this ticket would cost approximately $693 in fine, along with a significant impact to your insurance rates.

So I didn’t realize that school had started already. And when school isn’t in session here in North Tonawanda NY, the speed limit is 30. So I was going 34 in a 20mph school zone trying to pass someone and I got pulled over. Now this is my first offense. Should I plea not guilty at court, or guilty?

My husband got pulled over for doing 37 in a 25 mph school zone. The sign was hidden by trees and the officer jumped out in front of the vehicle with a laser gun in his hand. The officer took license and registration to write up the ticket. However, the officer was called away and a second officer that was nearby wrote the ticket for 40 in a 25. Is this grounds for dismissal? Due to beening charged a high rate of speed than he was actually traveling?

I received a ticket for 61mph in a school zone (20mph). I honestly started off with a bad day. I was already late to work, my daughter was in the back seat crying that she didn’t want to be late to school because the were having some type of function. I was trying to calm her down and in the mist of it all I got pulled over. I just want to know if I should get an attorney or plead my case (guilty/not guilty), how many points and how much would the fine be?

Due to the significant consequences of this violation, including fines of $1293, Assessment fees of $675, insurance increases, and license suspension, I strongly suggest that you contest this ticket. You may reach us for a free consultation at 888-883-5529.

Received ticket for doing 5 miles over the limit in a school zone in Sayville, Long Island, NY. No other convictions. Police office told me that I should plead guilty and may not receive full 3 points. Is this true? Should I contest?

Driving down a road with the speed posted 30 Mph, I come up to a small hill, now of course, you coast down the hill. An officer was sitting at the bottom of that hill. I then see the speed limit dropped to 20 due to a school zone, which I did not see. As soon as I saw the second sign after that hill, I was down to 20mph. He pulled me over saying I was doing 37 in a 20. I was doing the posted speed 30 and of course, but the hill brought me to the 37 as I was going down. I never saw a school or the 1st sign. But I did see the second sign and slowed down to the 20. But the officer clocked me as he was sitting at the bottom of that hill. I told him I did not see the 1st posted sign, and also my car tells me when I’m over the speed limit. And my car did not say “the speed limit is 20mph”. The officer acted like I was crazy when I told him my car says that when you go over the posted speed more that 5 miles. He gave me a ticket 37 in a 20. I don’t think it’s fair, I do not speed as I’m a disabled person. My daughter was even with me and she did not see the 1st posted speed sign either. And I was doing the 20 mph when he pulled me over. How can I handle this?

Joann – you are currently facing a 4 point speeding ticket. While we understand the reasons for the speeding ticket, they are unfortunately not a valid defense in court. There are different court systems in NY – both with their own procedural rules. In order to provide you with further information, please inform us of the location of this ticket.

I got a $50 ticket (via camera/mailed to me) for going 40mph in a 25mph school zone. I honestly thought “school zone” rules were only when school is in session! This was for 7/31, in the summertime. I’ve Googled this and looked on the http://www.violationinfo.com site and can’t find the answer. If I’m wrong, this means weekends and holidays ALSO count? Also, I see your answers to other people are stating points penalties, but my letter clearly states: “There are no points associated with this Notice.”

So I was just picked up for doing 32 miles and a 20 school zone in Canisteo New York. This is approximately an hour and a half away from my house so I’m contemplating on whether it’s worth just pleading guilty, suggestion?

Ben, This is a 4 point ticket that carries a fine of $300 along with a court fee of $93. I do not suggest you plead guilty as this will have an impact on your insurance. Feel free to reach out at 888-434-0406 to discuss your case further.

Melissa, while a Judge does have discretion to impose jail time based on a moving violation, it is highly unlikely to occur with this ticket. However, there are still serious consequences associated with this violation. This is a 4 point ticket, which carries a fine of $693, as fines are doubled in a school zone. Pleading guilty to this violation could also cause a drastic increase in your insurance costs.

I received a nasty ticket today… I rolled through a stop sign (failure to stop) and sped in a school zone (going 48 in 20) .. school wasn’t in session today, so I didn’t know the 20 mph still applied (until I looked it up after receiving the ticket) I live in suffolk county. How much money do you think I’ll be paying? Is it necessary to get an attorney?

Jamie – The violations you are currently facing total 9 points, and carry substantial penalties – both in fines and impacts on your insurance rates. I therefore strongly advise you to contest these tickets to mitigate the impact of these tickets.

This is a 3 point ticket which carries a fine of $300 plus a $93 administrative fee if you plead guilty. Since this ticket can also cause an increase in your insurance, I do not recommend you just plead guilty to the ticket. You can enter a plead of not guilty to get these penalties reduced.

I RECIEVED A TICKET TODAY FOR DOING 25 IN A 15 MPH SCHOOL ZONE.I WAS TRAVELING DOWN A MAIN RD THAT IS NOT A SCHOOL AREA CLOCKED AT 41 IN A 30 MPH ZONE ORIGINALLY THE POLICE OFFICER DID NOT PULL ME OVER WHEN I TURNED ONTO A STREET THAT WAS A SCHOOL ZONE AND WAS DECELERATING TO THE 15 MARKED SPEED THEY SUPPOSEDLY CLOCKED ME AT 25 IN A 15 MPH SCHOOL ZONE BOTH MY DASHBOARD AND GPS INDICATED I WAS DOING 18MPH… WHAT SHOULD I DO

Today just received a ticket speeding in school. I’m accused of going 32 mph in 15mph . The officer that issued the ticket was rude. I was actually going with flow of traffic. The officer stated I was pulling away from the car behind me. The officer was close to hitting my vehicle. What is your advice on the ticket situation???

unfortunately I spent a long time reading the most mundane bill I’ve ever read and they still do not answer my question. The question of exactly WHEN is a school zone enforceable. They fall on very vague language of “on school days”. When is a school day? I know for the most part Sept – June, but how about Friday, July 25th? They put up speed cameras at 2 schools on Friday because those 3 schools are open – does that mean it’s enforceable only because they are open? Or does it mean we can get tickets in front of closed schools as long as it’s M-F during the hours?

The law I found referred to another, which states only this: ——————————–no person shall drive in excess of such maximum school speed limits during: (1) school days at times indicated on the school zone speed limit sign, provided, however, that such times shall be between the hours of seven o’clock A.M. and six o’clock P.M. or alternative times within such hours; or (2) a period when the beacons attached to the school zone speed limit sign are flashing and such sign is equipped with a notice that indicates that the school zone speed limit is in effect when such beacons are flashing, provided, however, that such beacons shall only flash during student activities at the school and up to thirty minutes immediately before and up to thirty minutes immediately after such student activities. ————————————So I ask, if it’s only on a school day, (a day when school is OPEN) then how can we as drivers know that one school is open on a day in August, when another one is not? I am not opposed to this enforcement at all – we have all seen those drivers that act like speed demons drive past our schools when we walk our kids in, but I think this law leaves too much gray area in understanding exactly when it’s enforceable – especially (mostly) in summer.

Sorry you had to go through all that trouble! You should have come to us sooner! We have a page that specifically answers all of your questions. The short answer is 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM on all non-federal holidays and weekends.

New Jersey Office:

Upstate NY office:

Honestly I have no Idea how these guys do it. I went from 4 point ticket speeding in a school zone, which I assume would be a double point double fine type of situation, to a NO POINT NO FINE parking ticket... I am in complete shock, and I am extremely happy that I chose Rosenblum Law Firm to represent me.read more

I got a speeding ticket and four points on my license. Rosenblum Law Firm was able to reduce it to zero points (and pay a small fee instead)! My lawyer helped me throughout the process. I would not have had such a good outcome without their help. Thank you!read more

I can’t express how thankful I am that I came across you guys by accident on Google. After reading a couple of reviews, I had some hopes that you guys would exceed my expectations. I’ve never had a speeding ticket until I moved away from NY and I started to visit my family once a month. I decided to take a chance on a local lawyer new to the field and I was so disappointed. I wish I had came across you guys way earlier then I probably wouldn’t have had any speeding tickets to begin with. After getting my second speeding ticket, I knew I needed a better lawyer this time because I wasn’t willing to take any chances again. I was being tailgated by a driver from NJ so I decided to speed up and get into the right lane thinking the driver will no longer tail gate me but I was wrong. After getting into the right lane and still tailgating me, I decided to speed up and so did the driver from NJ.Needless to say, he took the next exit and before I even got to tap on my brakes I saw the cop around the corner. He didn’t even give me a chance to explain but instead gave me the nice fat ticket. I’m glad I found the Rosenblum Law Firm and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of my case. I will definetly use you guys again (god forbid I don’t need to again) in the future. I’ve already recommended you guys to a friend and I will probably continue to do so to. I can’t thank you guys enough cause now I can have peace of mind and that ticket was a big headache. You guys are definetly worth the money and I think the price is more than reasonable!read more

I got a ticket going 20 over I-95 Rosenblum Lawfirm was able to reduce that 4 point ticket to a 0 point ticket. Got a second ticket same highway they are also handling that one as well I’m very optimistic that they’ll get me the best plea deal. Price is worth it to keep your record and license clean. All lawyers and representatives are very friendly and informative. Highly recommended.read more

Phenomenal outcome. Phenomenal Service. I live in Montreal, Quebec, and while crossing the border into Canada from NY, a state trooper handed me 3 tickets for operating without a license, operating without valid registration, and operating without insurance (a misdemeanour). Needless to say I was extremely frustrated and worried about this situation, and felt I had a case to fight for in court. I came across Rosenblum Law Firm, and seriously, I am extraordinarily fortunate to have hired them to handle this case. They managed to get the court to dismiss all but one charge (for operating out of class), which carries no points and a max fine of $300. While the entire team did an amazing job, Adriana specifically needs a shoutout from my end, and while I'm not the kind of person to take to the internet to write reviews, the work absolutely requires some validation on my part. Do not hesitate. Do not worry. Call them, ask questions, they will get you answers. I honestly believe they will solve your problem. Thank you to everyone at Rosenblum Law.read more

Very happy with the service. I just sent them my ticket and paid the retaining fee, and they managed to get a not guilty verdict. As the date of my hearing was approaching, and I was getting anxious, they always answered my e-mails and calmed me downThanks you very much!!!read more

This law firm does a great job and helps you through the whole process. Everything is handled professionally and carefully. I am very happy I chose them and highly recommend them to anyone else.read more

I placed a call to Rosenblum Law Firm because I was in need of Representation for a Ticket I received in the New York area and not only did they Beat my case in a fast timely Manner they emailed me and called me after they got the case thrown out to tell me the good news. Adrianna & Asia are the greatest reps as I asked them every question In the book lol and they had all the answers. Thanksread more

I hired Rosenblum firm for my daughter after she recieved a speeding ticket in Greenburg NY. This firm was not only EXPEDITIOUS calling me back after I completed an online inquiry, the retainer was EXTREMELY reasonable, everyone associated within the firm is AMAZING. Moreover, daughter received 0 POINTS... NY is so different from NJ, but because the Rosenblum Firm also practices in NJ, they understood the importance of preserving my daughters new NJ probationary license requirements. THANK YOU ROSENBLUM FIRM...... You all are PHENOMENAL!!!read more

Thank you Adam for taking the time to talk to me on the phone so promptly and honestly. I received a traffic violation in Canandaigua, NY and have traffic court tomorrow. I emailed this firm with a question of whether or not to get a lawyer. I received a very prompt telephone call from Alan Rosenblum. He was caring, concerned and genuinely interested in what I had to say. Thank you for the complimentary advice. I highly recommend them and will call on them again if needed.read more

Dealing with the Rosenblum Law Firm has been a very pleasant experience. I was facing a 6 point speeding ticket, and they were able to get it dropped to a 0 point violation! Highly recommended!!read more

Attorney from Rosenblum Law, helped me with my speeding ticket on I-495 in NY while being a NJ resident. Would've gotten 6 points in NY and 2 points in NJ if it wasn't for the firm! It took less than a week to get the issue resolved and I didn't even have to appear in court! Definitely recommend this law firm for any moving violation in NJ or NY.read more

Rosenblum Law Firm provided absolute professional representation with my traffic ticket in NYC Traffic Court. I was given a ticket while moving on a green light making a turn only to be pulled over for , not proceeding with caution in a pedestrian walkway, no one ever stops walking across the street in these situations. They handled this clearly with the court.read more

I was facing three equipment violations (tinted windows) and a 4 point speeding ticket. Needless to say i was stressed out about it after i received the ticket. I inquired with Rosenblum Law Firm and did not delay in retaining them. I did not feel comfortable going to court without representation, i hear these officers go to court and they just read what they did to the judge while he nods in agreement, and then the judge says you're guilty. Well at this point, why NOT retain a traffic lawyer, and that was a good decision because my charges were all dismissed, No Points, No Fine! Thank you Rosenblum Law Firm for representing me;!read more

What better firm to trust your sort comings for traffic tickets with that Rosenblum Law Firm. The process was easy and from the very first day after speaking with a team member you already get the feelings you won the case and you have absolutely nothing to worry about. HIGHLY Recommended!read more

My son received 3 traffic tickets so we contracted the Rosenblum Law Firm. First, was dismissed, 0 pts, 0 fines. Although, second was not dismissed and had to pay a fine; at least pts did get reduced. Third one, we're still awaiting the outcome and know the Rosenblum team will do their best to get it dismissed. I definitely recommend them and will always keep their number handy.read more

I received 6 tickets at once and was completely overwhelmed! I was referred to the Rosenblum law firm by 2 different friends. Once I contacted them I was put completely at ease. They were very professional and accommodating. And best of all they got my tickets reduced to zero point! And they were very reasonably priced! All in all a great experienceread more

I received a ticket last April for talking on my cell phone. (5 points!). I sent it in to Rosenblum along with their fee. They told me my court date was set for April 3018. Just yesterday I received an email from Rosenblum saying my case was dismissed and there is no fine. Oils I ask for anything more? I was most satisfied with and most appreciative of whatever they did.read more

I was pulled over for speeding on the Manhattan Bridge, Chinatown bound. I honestly couldn't confirm nor deny the ticket. All I know, is that the consequences of just pleading guilty will bear a significant financial burden on me, both immediately and down the road; with points and surcharges. I was skeptical at first, for I've never had any experience with hiring a representation for any court matter. I thought to myself, I know what's the worst that could happen...but what about the best case scenario? The upside is far greater, for me not to take a shot. That's when I turned to Rosenblum Law Firm. From the moment we were in contact, I knew I made a good choice. They were very professional in the sense that, they never made any promises. Each case outcome is different, so how could they? The only resource I had available were the countless positive reviews and testimonies from past clients. But that's only second to the fact that they have the number of years and experience to go along with these reviews. Needless to say, I brought them on board, and just let them do what they do best. Yesterday, I received the outcome of my case. I'm very happy to say that all violations were dismissed, and I received 0 points and $0 in fines. Now, I cannot tell you what to do, because that decision is entirely up to you. All I can say is, if you're on the fence whether to hire them or not, I would say go ahead and do so. Sometimes, we just have to let the professionals and experienced, do what they do best.read more

Incredible customer service. Went above and beyond to give me the information I needed to make the best choice, and guided me with care and professionalism. Would say I'd use them again but hopefully I don't need to fight a ticket ever again :P (knock on wood!)read more

I honestly would recommend the Rosenblum Law Firm! My experience was great: After a red light and accident ticket, I choose the Rosenblum Law Firm to represent me in defense, and I'm very pleased with the outcome, the ticket was completely dismissed. I found a polite and professional staff that were great at listening and keeping me informed as to the status. They saved me time, money, points.Thank you Mr. Adam and all your staff members that contacted me!read more

Great people! The staff is very courteous and professional. I spoke with one of their lawyers shortly after I got a ticket for using my mobile in NYC. The lady with whom I spoke was a good listener; she let me explain to her what led to my getting the ticket, and my concerns about my driving record. She advised me about the seriousness of the violation and all possible outcomes. Finally, my ticket was dismissed, and I didn't need to appear in court. Except for that one phone call, I handled all of the attorney's requirements online- required documents and office fee. My advice to anyone who seeks their services is do everything exactly as they say and BE PATIENT! Thank you so much! You brightened my day.read more

I had a NY speeding ticket which could have brought in 4-6 points, and I live in NJ... They represented me, and I never had to face any court appearance, they cleared all my six points, and I only had to take an online defensive course test.. They had also given point reduction guarantee right at the outset failing which they would return my money back... Awesome and professional service... they thrilled me when all points were dismissed..read more

I want to personally thank The Rosenblum Law Firm for taking my case with a speeding ticket I recieved in Staten Island. I am not sure if you have read online; but that is one of the hardest location's to fight against in New York. The team was very thorough on the procedures on how they would go when fighting cases like these. They worked very hard for my case and I received the happy news that my case was resolved! No points and no fine was required from me!! Now I cannot guarantee your situation will go as well as mine; but I can guarantee The Rosenblum Law Firm will try their hardest for you. Again thank you very much!!!read more

A great experience! I had a court appearance scheduled the next day and didn't know what to do. I found The Rosenblum Law Firm on line and called at 11:00 p.m. They called me first thing in the morning and it turned out that they had someone at that very court that morning. I paid a fee and their attorney took it from there! I knew it was 50/50 I could win or lose, but I was glad to have Rosenblum Law Firm in my corner. They stood by me, and I just got my dismissal note. Thank you Rosenblum Law Firm!read more